Menu

How To Open A Bank Account In Australia

Are you wondering how to open a bank account in Australia?

It’s one of the many, many things to do on your checklist when you emigrate, and the choice can be a hard one when you don’t know anything about the banks in Australia.

When we made the move to Australia back in 2013, we decided to open our Australian bank accounts with Australia’s largest bank, Commonwealth Bank.

And over 6 years later, we’re still banking with them.

The service we’ve had in our local branch has always been efficient and friendly – a far cry from the experience you’ll be used to from most South African banks! They have a great app that allows you to transfer funds between your accounts, make payments, change your limits and even track your spending – all at the touch of a screen, 24/7.

That’s why I’m pleased to partner with them to share with you how to open a bank account in Australia, ready for your arrival.

Can I Open A Bank Account In Australia?

If you’re emigrating to Australia, you can open a bank account with CommBank up to 14 days before your arrival date.

You can set up your account online in just a few minutes – that’s how easy it is.

You will need to go into the branch to activate the accounts and pick up your bank cards, and once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to make withdrawals and use your bank cards in stores and online.

It really is as simple as it sounds.

If you’re ready to open your bank account in Australia with CommBank, you can visit their Moving To Australia website here and get started.

As a Commonwealth Bank affiliate, I’ll receive a small referral fee for valid accounts opened through my links. This is at no cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Say hello to the Commonwealth Bank of Australia

There’s a lot to look forward to when you move to Australia. Whether you’re surfing at a sunny beach, enjoying fresh seafood or commuting on a ferry over bright blue waters, every day will be an adventure.

We want to make sure you have the confidence to move smoothly and easily, knowing there’s a financial partner on your side. That’s why we’re introducing you to the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. They’re known to Aussies as CommBank.

Meet the bank more new arrivals choose


CommBank is Australia’s largest bank. They’ve been helping Australian dreams come true since 1911, and support more people moving to Australia than any other bank.

With a variety of products and services, you can get sorted in no time:

  • Find tips on how they can help you call Australia home on their Moving to Australia website.
  • Depending on your situation, you may be able to get one-to-one support from a Relationship Manager in their International Premier and Retail Banking team*. They’re here to help you with your Australian banking needs.

 CommBank are excited to welcome you to Australia.

Things you should know: Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 is a company incorporated in Australia with limited liability and subject to Australian regulation (CommBank). *Relationship management support is available to selected customers moving to Australia who earn an annual income of AUD$100,000 or above. CommBank will need to verify your income and visa to qualify for this service.